Histopathological spectrum of oral cavity lesions: An observational study

Abstract

Background: Oral health significantly impacts quality of life, with lesions in the oral cavity potentially leading to severe health outcomes. The range of these lesions spans from benign to malignant tumors, making early and accurate diagnosis crucial. This observational study focuses on the spectrum of oral cavity lesions, emphasizing the prevalence and management of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the most common malignant lesion found in the oral cavity. Methods: Conducted at Department of  Pathology, GSVM Medical Collage, Kanpur, UP, India, over one years, this cross-sectional study involved comprehensive clinical and histopathological evaluations of oral biopsies. Participants included were those attending the outpatient department, with exclusions for patients presenting with non-oral primary cancers or immunocompromised states. Key diagnostic procedures included radiography, cytology, and various biopsies, analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The study identified a dominant prevalence of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma, accounting for 47% of cases, suggesting its less aggressive nature and better prognosis. Other significant findings included a marked gender disparity with males comprising 76% of cases, indicating potentially higher exposure to risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol. The frequency of lesions was highest in middle-aged individuals, diminishing with increasing age. Various forms of dysplasia and verrucous pathologies were also frequently observed, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring and early intervention. Conclusion: The high incidence of specific lesions such as well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma highlights the importance of histopathological examination for early detection. The study findings suggest a critical need for targeted public health interventions and enhanced awareness programs, especially aimed at high-risk groups. Effective management and prevention strategies could significantly improve outcomes and reduce the burden of oral cancers, particularly in demographics with elevated risks.